Animal Family: Trochilidae

About the Trochilidae Family

The parent order is Apodiformes.

Delve into the captivating world of the Trochilidae family, more commonly known as hummingbirds. These remarkable birds are celebrated for their dazzling iridescence, unparalleled agility, and their unique feeding strategy. As a group, hummingbirds stand out as true marvels of avian evolution.

What makes the Trochilidae family truly unique is their specialized ability to hover in mid-air, a feat achieved through incredibly rapid wingbeats that can reach up to 80 beats per second. This allows them to feed on nectar while airborne, making them crucial pollinators in many ecosystems. Members of this family share common traits such as their small size, long slender bills, and a highly efficient metabolism that fuels their energetic lifestyle. Their vibrant plumage, often iridescent, serves both as a display for mates and a means of camouflage among flowers.

Other Orders

There are many different orders based upon their class. To learn more about classification orders, click here.

Genera within Trochilidae

Within the order of Trochilidae, there are one or more genus of animals that share common characteristics and traits.

Each genus represents a more specific grouping within the order, highlighting the diversity and specialization of species that have adapted to various ecological niches. Below is a list of genera that fall under this order, showcasing the rich variety of life forms classified within this taxonomic category.

Archilochus

Animals in the family of Trochilidae

Click on an image to learn more about one of the animals.

South America